Today’s article raises memories of what we on the Kenai Peninsula have gone through over the years. Zoning in our boroughs raises all sorts of objections.During my tenure on the Kenai Peninsula Borough Assembly, I endeavored to rework the gravel pit ordinance. The difficulty is that the gravel operators were paying close attention, while homeowners do not until it likely will affect them — as is now the case in Mat-Su. I do not envy their Planning Commission; they have no choice but to follow whatever guidelines are on the books.
It is so important for them and the Assembly to protect homeowners. In our case, we wanted protections for existing wells. My goal was up to 500 feet of distance between the gravel operation and existing water well. I didn’t get that, not even close. Sounds like residential zoning would be real helpful.I wish those homeowners and the Mat Su Planning Commission the best; it is a quandary that raises its head all too often. Too bad the Mental Health Trust doesn’t take more review of the properties they are selling and try to fit into the neighborhoods in which they lie.
— Milli Martin
Homer
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